Nafi’u Bala, factional leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has insisted that party leadership cannot be assumed through informal processes, warning that due process must be strictly followed in determining membership and leadership positions.

Bala, who is laying claim to the leadership of the party, made the statement during an interview with the BBC Hausa Service.

He maintained that the proper constitutional procedures must be observed, stressing that recognition within the party cannot be arbitrarily conferred.

“Under my leadership, anyone above the age of 55 will not be eligible to contest for office under the ADC.

“We are giving the youth their rightful chance to lead”, he said.

He also said the party is being infiltrated by individuals who are not properly registered members.

“It is necessary for us to speak out. People who are not even members of our party are claiming leadership,” he said.

He further explained the party’s constitutional requirements for membership and leadership eligibility.

“Article 9 of our constitution clearly outlines the procedure for becoming a registered member of the ADC.

“One cannot simply receive a membership card at an event and be declared a leader.

“Such an act is a direct violation of our constitutional process. Officially, these individuals are not members of our party because they did not follow due process”, he noted.

Bala also addressed his participation in a recent party gathering involving key political figures, saying his presence should not be misconstrued as endorsement of any factional leadership arrangement.

“I attended the event, but not with the intention of endorsing David Mark as our leader.

My purpose was to support those adopting the ADC as the platform they would join to challenge the current administration”, he stated.

He further claimed that ongoing legal processes have validated his leadership position within the party, insisting that rival claims have been dismissed by the courts.

“The judiciary has already spoken. They appealed the case, but the court dismissed their appeal and fined them N2 million,” he added.

Bala maintained that preparations for upcoming elections are ongoing under his leadership, with the aim of securing victory for the party at all levels. (Weekend Trust)